LICENCE TO SMOKE THE ULTIMATE INSULT TO SMOKERS…. AND RETAILERS

MEDIA RELEASE
November 15, 2012

LICENCE TO SMOKE THE ULTIMATE INSULT TO SMOKERS…. AND RETAILERS

The suggestion that smokers should require a licence not only represents a despicable insult in a supposedly free country, it also highlights that some small interest groups are blind to the very real impacts their schemes have on the businesses – and livelihoods – of small business operators, says the Australasian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS).

A University of Sydney professor’s discriminatory suggestion that smokers should be licenced – and what’s more should have to pay for the privilege of holding such a licence – is beyond reproach from a freedom of choice perspective, said AACS Executive Director Jeff Rogut.

“The notion that smokers should require a licence to smoke is highly insulting and at odds with the most important concept of consumerism in this country: the right to choose,” Mr Rogut said.

“For Government to even entertain the thought of such an insulting and discriminatory scheme would be a clear admission that it has no faith in its own plain packaging regulations.

“It is encouraging to hear that, in response to this ridiculous suggestion, even organisations like Quit Victoria have stated they would not support the scheme. Nevertheless for such an insulting idea to even warrant discussion reinforces the silent plight in which small retailers are increasingly forced to operate in this country,” Mr Rogut said.

Quit Victoria Executive Director Fiona Sharkie has reportedly refused to support a smoking licence in the short term.

“As long as tobacco remains a legal product, adult Australians should have the right to consume it, and retailers with the capacity to responsibly provide this product should be able to do so without more red tape,” Mr Rogut said.

“No one doubts the harmful effects of smoking, however unless tobacco is made illegal, people should be allowed to get on with their lives and choose whether to smoke or not. What’s next – licences to buy alcohol, fast food, confectionery or soft drinks?”

Further information:
Jeff Rogut
Executive Director
Australasian Association of Convenience Stores
Ph: 0467 873 789

Media enquiries:
Stephen Naylor
Wise McBaron Communication
Ph: (02) 9279 4770